We also had a pretty extensive tech review, where we went over the following things:

Interviewing | Getting set up:

Levels (how loud you’re recording):

Decibels should be between -10 and -6 (displayed “db” in bottom right corner of screen)

Can change record level by adjusting the “Input Level” button on the side

Generally, an input level around 80-90 is a good starting place

Record Mode (internal v. external mic):

Rec Mode (press button)

Red Mode: Mono (should always be mono)

Source: Can be Ext (eternal mic) or Int (internal mic)

Getting started:

What to ask at beginning of interview:

What did you have for breakfast? (Or another silly question to ask so they talk while you adjust their levels)

Will you introduce yourself by saying your name and title?

Will you spell your name?

What to ask at the end of interview:

Is there anything else I should know?

Is there anyone else I should be talking to (helps you find other sources)

Gather nat sound

Gather room sound

Other Tips:

You hold the mic, not the interviewee

Ask follow up questions, ask open-ended questions

Go into your interview with at least five questions, but don’t be afraid to deviate from your plan

Get that microphone up close and personal - about 4-6 inches away from the side of their mouth.

You want your decibels (dB) to be between -12 and -6.

Remember to be gathering nat sound (pool splashing, students in the hallway) and room sound (record 1 minute of "silence" in the room that you're doing your interview in. This lets you pick up sounds like air conditioners, etc. that will help make sound transitions easier during production).